Operators of Computer-Based Test (CBT) centres in Oyo State have called on the National Assembly to urge the Joint Admission and Matriculation Board (JAMB) to increase the fees paid to them for conducting examinations. They argue that escalating operational costs have made the business increasingly unprofitable while the government continues to reap significant financial benefits.
Speaking anonymously to New Telegraph, several CBT centres owners voiced concerns over stagnant payments despite inflation and rising expenses.
A CBT centre owner in Oyo Town highlighted the financial strain, stating, “Since 2020/2021, JAMB has paid us N700 per candidate to supervise and conduct examinations. This amount has remained unchanged despite rising costs. Essential materials, such as books, have doubled in price, and fuel subsidy removal has significantly increased our expenses. We can no longer afford to pay our staff the same wages as in previous years.”
He further emphasized the high cost of maintaining infrastructure, including constructing exam cubicles, purchasing and maintaining computer systems, setting up server rooms, and replacing damaged equipment. “The investment in this business is substantial. We cannot simply walk away, but the current financial arrangement is unsustainable,” he added.
The CBT operators pointed out that while JAMB increased the cost of its examination forms from N800 to N1,500 last year, payments to CBT centres remained unchanged. “To register candidates, we need electricity, and fuel costs have skyrocketed. Even those relying on solar power face steep maintenance costs. Transportation costs for staff have also surged. This year, we need financial support from the government to sustain our operations.”
They are appealing for an increase in payment from N700 to at least N1,500 per candidate to cover the rising costs of materials, equipment, and operations. “It is not necessary to raise JAMB form fees for candidates, but JAMB should not deprive us, its operational partners,” one operator stressed.
Another CBT centre owner in Ibadan echoed the concerns, stating, “The current payment per candidate is inadequate in today’s economy if we are to maintain examination standards. Considering the cost of fuel, security, and hiring trained personnel, even N1,500 per candidate would barely cover expenses. We urge JAMB, particularly its Registrar, Prof. Ishaq Oloyede, to consider increasing the payment to N2,000 per candidate so we can remain financially viable.”
The CBT centre operators concluded by appealing to the National Assembly to intervene and push for a revision of JAMB’s payment structure, warning that without an increase, many centres may struggle to continue operations.
